Cheltenham reclaims RSL Cup

The Rosellas reclaimed the RSL Cup from rivals Bentleigh after a hard-fought victory in their ANZAC Round clash at Jack Barker Oval.

It was a pulsating contest between the two sides for much of the afternoon, with the lead changing several times during the first three quarters. Both teams played scintillating football at times, however, neither could wrest control of the match.

But Cheltenham finally found another gear in the final term, kicking six goals to one to turn their narrow three quarter time deficit into a confidence-boosting 25-point victory.

Sean McLaren dominated in the ruck for the Rosellas all afternoon and duly earned best on ground honours. Teammates Tom Donnell and Daniel Vaughn were both prolific ball-winners and provided plenty of forward momentum, while the diminutive Ange Soldatos proved a livewire up forward.

Jackson Meredith and Brody Lawford were the standouts in what was an admirable performance from Bentleigh, who entered the clash with several key players missing from its best 22.